What is the term for breathing that occurs while at rest?

The term for breathing that occurs while at rest is referred to as quiet respiration. This type of breathing typically occurs automatically and does not require conscious effort, consisting of normal, relaxed breaths. It involves the diaphragm and intercostal muscles, allowing for efficient gas exchange without the added energy expenditure associated with more forceful or deep breathing patterns.

In contrast, terms like forced respiration refer to more vigorous breathing that often occurs during exercise or exertion, involving additional muscles to increase airflow. Deep breathing indicates breaths that are larger than normal, usually associated with a conscious effort to inhale deeply. Pulmonary ventilation encompasses the overall process of air moving in and out of the lungs but does not specify the resting state of the breathing process. Thus, quiet respiration specifically characterizes the gentle and automatic nature of breathing at rest.